Daniel Keith Ayer

Daniel Keith Ayer, 56, of LaHarpe, Ill., passed away Sunday, May 16, 2021 at the UnityPoint – Memorial Hospital in Carthage.

Dan was born on April 4, 1965 in St. Louis, Missouri the son of Ronald and Janet (Morgan) Ayer. On December 28, 1985 he married Lisa Grider. They later divorced. On October 19, 2015 he married Shaila Oaks. She survives.

Dan was raised in Emden and graduated from North Shelby High School. Following high school, Dan attended Northeast Missouri University before transferring to Western Illinois University to complete his Bachelors Degree. He later returned to Western Illinois University to receive his Masters Degree.

Dan touched the lives of many children throughout his career in education. He worked as a Camp Counselor for disabled children, bus driver, custodian, 1:1 aide, Special Education Teacher and was currently serving as Principal for the Nauvoo-Colusa CSD 325.

Outside of school, Dan was a man of many talents. He enjoyed playing the guitar, bass, banjo, ukulele and singing. He played in the bands Boulevard, Lemmings and Ayer & Oaks. He also installed, sanded and finished many hardwood floors and recently began creating stained glass.

Dan’s hobbies included riding his motorcycle and boating.

Survivors include his wife; his father of Overland Park, Kan.; three sons: Tyler (Allison McKenzie) Ayer of Chico, Calif., Nate Ayer and Brandon Ayer both of LaHarpe; two step-children: Hallie Draughan of LaHarpe and Brandon Wright of Morton, Ill.; one grandchild: Harlee and two step-grandchildren: Grace and Brendon and one sister: Deb (Craig) Antovoni of Stilwell, Kan.

Dan was preceded in death by his mother: Janet.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 22 at the Nauvoo-Colusa CSD 325 School Gymnasium. Pastor Maxinne Dennison officiated, followed by visitation with the family until 5 p.m.

A memorial fund has been established for the Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network. Banks & Beals Funeral Home is assisting the family.